Ali, a traveler from Afghanistan, embarked on a journey to the picturesque terraced fields of Yuanyang in southwest China’s Yunnan province. Nestled in the heart of the Ailao Mountains, these ancient rice terraces are not only a UNESCO World Heritage site but also a testament to sustainable farming practices passed down through generations.
Upon arriving, Ali was greeted by the warm smiles of the local Hani villagers, who have cultivated these lands for over a thousand years. Intrigued by their harmonious relationship with nature, Ali joined them in the fields to learn the art of transplanting rice seedlings.
As he worked alongside the villagers, Ali discovered that they employ a unique farming model that foregoes the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Instead, they raise ducks and fish within the flooded terraces. The ducks help control pests by eating insects, while the fish provide natural fertilization and aerate the water, creating a balanced ecosystem that enhances rice growth.
“This method not only preserves the environment but also sustains the community economically,” one of the villagers explained. “We rely on nature’s own cycles, and in return, it provides for us.”
Ali was deeply moved by this eco-friendly approach. “Witnessing how the Hani people live in harmony with their surroundings has been an eye-opening experience,” he shared. “It’s a valuable lesson on the importance of sustainable practices that respect both the land and its people.”
The terraced fields of Yuanyang stand as a remarkable example of traditional knowledge meeting modern sustainability. Ali’s journey reflects a growing global interest in ecological agriculture and the preservation of cultural heritage.
As travelers like Ali continue to explore and share these stories, the hope is that such practices will inspire more communities worldwide to embrace eco-friendly methods that nurture both the earth and future generations.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
